Elgin Theatre Orchestra

Orchestra guide

The Orchestra is the largest section in the theatre and is closest to the stage, split into five blocks of seating that include one large central block flanked by four smaller side blocks. Rows run from AA-W, varying from performance to performance, with seats spanning 1-54 at the widest toward the rear of the theatre.

The Mezzanine overhang begins at Row F but does not appear in view until Row N. Due to the height of the Mezzanine, the overhang does not significantly hinder the view until the very rear of the auditorium, where the top of the stage may be cut off. Large safety pillars are located at the ends of Row R/S and in Row W, which obstructs seats directly next to or behind them.

Recent refurbishments ensure seats are comfortable, with the opportunity for extra legroom in aisle seats and in Row F, seats 4-14 and 41-51, where there are no seats directly in front. Four vertical aisles run the length of the theatre, with a large horizontal aisle dividing Row C and F and providing easy access to assisted seating in Row C.

There are two large Boxes either side of the Orchestra, with three smaller Boxes inside that each seat four people and offer side-angled views of the stage. There is a minimal rake throughout the Orchestra, however seating is staggered to offset view restrictions.

Orchestra Front Left

Rows in the front-left area curve toward the stage, reducing restrictions and allowing for great, close-up views of the action. Seats are higher-numbered at this end, decreasing toward the centre, with the highest number seats sat against the walls of the Boxes on the left. This section spans rows CC-C, with a wide horizontal aisle behind Row C that gives easy access to wheelchair and assisted seating. There is decent legroom in this area, although extra can be found in aisle seats.

Orchestra Front Right

Rows in the front-right area of the Orchestra curve toward the stage, which reduces restrictions and allows for detailed views of the action. Seats are lower-numbered at this end, increasing toward the centre, with the lowest number seats sat against the walls of the Boxes on the right. This section spans rows CC-C, with a wide horizontal aisle behind Row C that gives easy access to wheelchair and assisted seating. There is decent legroom throughout this section, although extra can be found in aisle seats.

Orchestra Centre

The centre block of the Orchestra spans rows AA-W, with seats facing the stage head-on and allowing for clear, panoramic views of the stage. There is a very minimal rake throughout the Orchestra, which may be restrictive for smaller patrons, however staggered seating offsets this. Rows are numbered 21-35 in the centre, with rows AA-CC becoming removable depending on the production. The Mezzanine overhang kicks in at around Row F, although is not in view until Row N, where it is too high to significantly affect anything. Seats in Row R onward may experience slight obstruction of the top of the stage, particularly during large-scale musicals. The sound-desk juts in to rows U-W, and large support pillars are also positioned in Row W, which can reduce comfort and legroom in seats directly surrounding.

Orchestra Rear Left

Rows in the rear-left of the Orchestra curve to face the stage, causing potential view restrictions in seats at the very ends of rows. Seats are higher-numbered in this area, decreasing toward the centre. A wide horizontal aisle divides Row C and Row F, allowing for seats 41-51 in Row F to have unlimited legroom. The Mezzanine overhang is in view from Row N, causing minor restrictions in the very rear rows of the theatre, where the top of the stage may be cut off. Wide support pillars at the end of Row R/S and in Row W also cause comfort and view restrictions to those positioned directly nearby.

Orchestra Rear Right

Rows in the rear-right area curve to face the stage, causing occasional view restrictions in seats at the very ends of rows. Seats are lower-numbered in this area, increasing toward the centre. A wide horizontal aisle divides Row C and Row F, allowing seats 4-14 in Row F to offer unlimited legroom. The Mezzanine overhang appears in view at around Row N, causing minor obstructions in the very rear rows of the theatre, where the top of the stage may be cut off. Wide support pillars at the end of Row R/S and in Row W also cause comfort and view restrictions to those positioned directly nearby.

SeatPlan’s Best Views of the Stage

The centre of the Orchestra offers the best views in this section, particularly in rows A-F, where the action appears close-up, offering an immersive experience. Rows in the middle-rear also offer exceptional, panoramic views of the stage with limited obstructions.

Best Legroom Seats

Due to the wide, horizontal aisle in front of Row F, there is unlimited legroom in seats 4-14 and 41-51. Comfort is good throughout the Orchestra, although extra legroom can be found in aisle seats.

Tips

• Seats 4-14 and 41-51 of Row F offer unlimited legroom
• Wide support pillars are located at the ends of Row R/S and in Row W
• The sound desk juts into rows U-W
• The Mezzanine overhang kicks in at Row N

Pricing

Seats are mostly priced the same throughout the Orchestra, where exceptional views are on offer. Premium priced tickets are located in rows AA-F, with no price difference between sitting in the centre or at the end of the row, therefore it is better to sit as centrally as possible. Row T onward are the next price bracket down, but still top price, due to the minimal effect of the Mezzanine overhang.

Bars

Bars, concession stands, and lounges are available on all levels of the theatre, including an accessible bar step-free from the main lobby. Staff are on-hand to assist access patrons.

Toilets

Women’s and Men’s toilets can be found on this level. Accessible facilities are also available in the Elgin Lounge, which can be accessed by elevator.